Historic Cherry Hill
Volunteer!
A nationally recognized house museum with some surprising stories to tell...
As a museum with an unusually extensive and well-documented family collection, Historic Cherry Hill offers its volunteers a unique learning experience. Volunteers enjoy the camaraderie of learning and working with others who have a similar interest in American social and cultural history. The Cherry Hill staff, composed of several full- and part-time professionals, look forward to showing you what the museum's varied volunteer positions have to offer.
Here's what our volunteers have to say:
The tour opens up a window in time and lets me look through to see the thoughts, feelings, and reactions to events in the Rankins' lives.
- Betty Grimm, Guide
I have always enjoyed learning new things. I like history and sharing that with young children in hopes that it will stimulate them to be interested in history too. The staff is very supportive and encouraging and that is so important to volunteeers.
- Karen Coates, Museum Teacher
I enjoy volunteering here because there is always something new to learn about life in the house, and there is a fun and dedicated group of volunteers and staff.
- Charles Senrick, Special Events
Seeing a child make the history connection to their own expanding world, or an adult having that moment of insight into another time provides a satisfying and ever-changing experience for me as their Guide.
- Margie Doolin, Guide
Volunteer Positions
Tour Guide--Present tours to adult and family groups on weekdays and/or weekends. Time commitment after training: minimum of two half days monthly.
Museum Teacher--Present educational programs for schoolchildren on weekdays during the school year. Time commitment after training: minimum of four school tours monthly.
Special Events--Help history come alive at various events throughout the year. Volunteers assist by greeting the public, baking Cherry Hill family recipes, handling sales in the museum shop, or performing other short-term assignments as needed. Time commitment after training: minimum of one event per year.
Special Projects--Provide much needed support to the museum staff by offering specialized skills. Past special projects volunteers have offered assistance as receptionists, gardeners, carpenters, and librarians. The museum's needs vary, but please let us know of any special interests or skills.
Outstanding Training
Historic Cherry Hill provides excellent and extensive training to volunteer Tour Guides and Museum Teachers. Classes are offered in winter/spring, and include lectures and interactive workshops led by museum staff and guest speakers. Training continues as new recruits observe tours and practice with experienced volunteers. Special readings and other study materials are provided. Training program schedules vary.
Volunteer Benefits
Special privileges and incentives are provided to all volunteers, including:
Volunteer Meetings--Enjoy knowledgeable speakers and social time with other museum volunteers (about four times a year).
Volunteer Newsletter--Keep updated with the latest in volunteer and museum news with Hilltop News, a biannual publication.
Field Trips--Travel to other historic sites for fun and education.
Incentive Program--Earn gifts which are awarded at the annual Volunteer Recognition Day luncheon.
Requirements
We are looking for volunteers who are articulate, self-motivated, and energetic. Volunteers should enjoy meeting people, have a strong interest in history, and be eager to learn. Museum Teacher positions also require some previous experience in teaching children.
Adult and family tours are generally offered Tuesdays through Sundays, April through December, and school programs are typically offered on weekdays from October through June of the school year.
Want to know more?
For more information about Historic Cherry Hill and its volunteer opportunities e-mail us at info@historiccherryhill.org.
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